Klinikum Bozen

Klinikum Bozen – Bolzano Hospital, Italy
Project overview

The Klinikum Bozen is a regional hospital in Bolzano, Italy. Recent renovations introduced advanced daylighting systems in the doctors’ offices, treatment rooms and central corridors. The hospital aims to provide patient comfort and staff wellbeing through improved natural lighting, while meeting stringent energy and hygiene requirements
retrosolar.us
.

Design challenge

Hospital spaces have varied daylighting needs: examination rooms require controlled lighting to ensure accurate diagnoses, while corridors benefit from diffuse natural light to support navigation and reduce anxiety. The building’s south‑east orientation exposes it to intense sun that must be mitigated. The shading system had to be maintenance‑free and compatible with the hospital’s strict hygiene protocols.

RetroSolar strategy

Doctors’ and treatment rooms on the south‑east façade use fixed RETROLuxTherm 20 mm systems integrated into the glazing
retrosolar.us
. In the roof over the central corridor (magistrale), RETROFlexTherm 25 mm louvers are oriented east–west and reflect south sun while allowing views of the north sky and zenith
retrosolar.us
. Approximately 3 000 m² of façade shading and 4 500 m² of roof shading were installed. Additional movable blinds are provided at opening windows to ensure shading when ventilation is used
retrosolar.us
.

Building physics and performance

The RetroSolar systems reduce heat gain and glare while maintaining high levels of diffuse light. The fixed blinds require no maintenance, a key advantage in healthcare settings where mechanical systems must be kept clean. By orienting the roof louvers east–west, the design ensures that direct southern sun is excluded while northern light is admitted, creating an uplifting, evenly lit corridor. The shading reduces cooling loads and supports the hospital’s energy targets.

Architectural outcome and significance

Patients and staff experience a bright, calming environment that uses natural light to enhance wellbeing. The unobtrusive retro‑reflective blinds preserve views and architectural clean lines. The project demonstrates how advanced shading systems can improve hospital design, particularly in climate zones with strong sun. By balancing daylight and thermal comfort, the Klinikum Bozen upgrade underscores the value of RetroSolar technology in healthcare applications.